How can I battle potential cooties?

Many have asked what to do if they find out they have transported dogs that ended up sick. As volunteers, we rely completely on the information that the sending party gives us. Yes, health certificates are required, by federal law, when the dogs are crossing state lines, but as many experienced drivers know, sometimes those health certs aren’t what they appear to be.

Just as there are unreliable and irresponsible rescues, drivers, coordinators and volunteers, there are also irresponsible and unreliable vets. Sad, but true.

So, what can you do?

All drivers should be cleaning their vehicles, after each transport, as general practice. That includes bleaching crates and bowls, washing blankets, towels, sheets and other cloth items, and spraying a cloud of disinfectant (Lysol-type product) in your vehicle and letting it sit closed overnight. Also, you should dispose of any half eaten chews of any kind (to save waste, pass those on with them, the doggie will appreciate it!).

In addition, you could use some type of parvocide, like Kennel Kare. It’s sold in a quart bottle, ready to use. It will not hurt fabric and only needs to be sprayed where the dog traveled, vomited or defecated. It is ideally used on hard surfaces, but it can be used on cloth; just don’t saturate unless the dog actually broke with something during/after transport.

**I am not recommending this product specifically, or guaranteeing that the use of this (or any similar product) will be 100% effective. I am just giving some options.**